One of my New Year's Resolutions this year was to sew myself six garments. I make most of my children's clothes, but I'm skittish about sewing for myself (all that fabric to ruin!) And I never have anything to wear, because I don't like/look terrible in/can't breastfeed in/can't afford storebought clothes. So.

I did finish the six garments (and with two months to spare!) - and a few deadlines helped. This dress was created over about three days for a friend's film noir-themed 21st birthday party. I ran into a few annoying construction issues, and if I hadn't had the deadline (and NOTHING else to wear!) it would undoubtedly have ended up wadded at the back of the sewing cupboard. I'm glad it didn't, though - I like it.

I started with a Butterick coat pattern. Flared each panel a bit towards the bottom (in an Eiffel Tower-type shape, not A-line) and lengthened the hemline by three inches. Changed the back of the dress to a V-neck in an effort to make it look more dressy and less coaty. Altered the collar. Threw out the sleeves completely - they were really badly drafted. Pulled horribly and cut into the arms unless they were right down by my sides. (Some Googling informed me that this was due to too deep an armscye. The things you learn!) Anyway these were long, looseish coat sleeves and I wanted tight 3/4 length ones.

It took about five tries to get the sleeves even remotely right, and I'd try again if I made the dress again - mine are just a wee bit too tight, and the elbow dart I added in a fit of fanciness is a little too high. They're a vast improvement, though.

Then I self-covered buttons for the first time - so much fun! - and made a big ol' sash, and I was done. The dress doesn't fasten below the buttons and sash - it doesn't tend to fall open, but I wear bike shorts enough just in case. The dress is lined except for the sleeves. The buttons are just for show - I used these huge metal snaps I cannibalised off a hand-me-down years ago and never thought I'd use!

(And yes... most of these photos are sideways. *I* dunno. Tilt your head, it's good for your neck.)

Stop being so damned positive. Staring at the sun only blinds some one. By only looking at the positive, you miss an entire beautiful world of shadows and colors. Don't be overly negative, be realistic. The world is so much more complex and beautiful that way.